generic plans of management sportsground · hawkesbury city council community land generic plan of...

Generic Plans of Management

Sportsground

Adopted by Council 10 May 2011

Hawkesbury City Council

Community Land Generic Plan of Management: Sportsgrounds 1

Foreword There are 25 Sportsgrounds and 3 Sports complexes within the Hawkesbury Local Government Area. The sportsgrounds are currently used for organised sport such as Cricket, Soccer, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Athletics and Australian Rules football. The complexes are used for organised sports such as Netball, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, Touch Football etc and their high levels of use attest to their popularity as sporting venues. Sportsgrounds are also a popular place for informal recreation such as formal dog training, jogging, school sports, community events and general games. Sportsgrounds are a challenging asset to manage, with demand for usage competing with the need to set limits of usage in order to maintain the grounds in good condition. This Plan of Management aims to accommodate the needs of the community, whilst maintaining the condition of sportsgrounds. It looks at the management issues of these areas with an attempt to identify solutions that are sensible and equitable, within budget constraints. I am confident that, with the actions outlined in this Plan, the Sportsgrounds of the Hawkesbury will benefit greatly. Yours sincerely Bart Bassett Mayor Prepared by: The Parks & Recreation Branch, May 2011


2 Community Land Generic Plan of Management: Sportsgrounds



Table of Contents Foreword ....................................................................................................................................................... 1 Table of Contents ......................................................................................................................................... 3 Definition of Terms....................................................................................................................................... 4 1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 7

1.1 Background ................................................................................................................................ 7 1.2 The Local Government Act ........................................................................................................ 7 1.3 Hawkesbury Sports Council ....................................................................................................... 8 1.4 Community Consultation............................................................................................................ 8 1.5 Scope of the Plan....................................................................................................................... 9

2 Basis for Management ..................................................................................................................... 10 2.1 Community Values................................................................................................................... 10 2.2 Corporate Goals....................................................................................................................... 10 2.3 Core Objectives........................................................................................................................ 11 2.4 Management Objectives .......................................................................................................... 11

3 Planning and Management Issues ................................................................................................. 13 3.1 Safety and Risk Management.................................................................................................. 13 3.2 Access and Parking ................................................................................................................. 13 3.3 Recreation and Land Use ........................................................................................................ 13 3.4 Environmental Management .................................................................................................... 14 3.5 Landscape Character and Design ........................................................................................... 14 3.6 Maintenance of Facilities and Grounds ................................................................................... 14 3.7 Community Involvement/Neighbour Relations......................................................................... 15

4 Management Strategy...................................................................................................................... 16 4.1 Leases, Licences and Other Estates ....................................................................................... 16

Club Houses / Buildings........................................................................................................... 16 Easements ............................................................................................................................... 16 Festivals / Events / Ceremonies .............................................................................................. 16 Filming...................................................................................................................................... 16 Markets .................................................................................................................................... 17 Parking ..................................................................................................................................... 17 Playing of Musical Instruments ................................................................................................ 17 Roads....................................................................................................................................... 17 Storage sheds .......................................................................................................................... 18 Stormwater............................................................................................................................... 18 Telecommunications Towers ................................................................................................... 18 Granting of leases, licences or other estates........................................................................... 18

4.2 Other Permitted Activities ........................................................................................................ 18 Irrigation ................................................................................................................................... 18 Signage .................................................................................................................................... 18 Stormwater............................................................................................................................... 19

4.3 Conditions of Use..................................................................................................................... 20 4.5 Schedule of Leases and Licenses ........................................................................................... 21

5 Appendices ....................................................................................................................................... 32



Definition of Terms

Bushland The category bushland is assigned to land that contains primary native vegetation and that vegetation is:

• The natural vegetation or a remainder of the natural vegetation of the land, or

• Although not the natural vegetation of the land, is still representative of the structure or floristics, or structure and floristics, of the natural vegetation in the locality.

Such land includes:

• Bushland that is mostly undisturbed with a good mix of tree ages, and natural regeneration, where the understorey is comprised of native grasses and herbs or native shrubs, and which contains a range of habitats for native fauna (such as logs, shrubs, tree hollows and leaf litter), or

• Moderately disturbed bushland with some regeneration of trees and shrubs, where there may be a regrowth area with trees of even age, where native shrubs and grasses are present in the understorey even though there may be some weed invitations, or

• Highly disturbed bushland where the native understorey has been removed, where there may be significant weed invasion and where dead and dying trees are present, where there is no natural regeneration of trees or shrubs, but where the land is still capable of being rehabilitated.

Community land Is land intended for public access and use. To prevent alienation of this land, it cannot be sold, leased, licensed or any other estate granted over the land for more than 21 years.

Cultural Significance Is a category of land that requires resolution by Council. Such land may be declared at an area of cultural significance because it is an area of Aboriginal, aesthetic, archaeological, historical, technical, research, or social significance.

As defined by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005:

An area is of Aboriginal Significance because the land:

• has been declared an Aboriginal place under section 84 of the National Parks and Wildlife Act

• whether or not in an undisturbed state, is significant to Aboriginal people in terms of their traditional or contemporary cultures, or

• is of significance or interest because of Aboriginal associations, or

• displays physical evidence of Aboriginal occupation (for example, items or artefacts such as stone tools, weapons, engraving sites, sacred trees, sharpening grooves or other deposits, and objects or materials that relate to the settlement of the land or place), or

• is associated with Aboriginal stories, or

• contains heritage items dating after European settlement that help to explain the relationship between Aboriginal people and later settlers, or

An area is of aesthetic significance, by virtue of:



• having strong visual or sensory appeal or cohesion, or

• including a significant landmark, or

• having creative or technical qualities, such as architectural excellence, or

An area is of archaeological significance, because the area contains:

• evidence of past human activity (for example, below-ground features such as building foundations, occupation deposits, features or artefacts or above-ground features such as buildings, works, industrial structures, and relics, whether intact or ruined), or

• any other deposit, object or material that relates to the settlement of the land, or

An area is of historical significance, because of the importance of an association or position of the land in the evolving pattern of Australian cultural history, or

An area is of technical or research significance, because of the area’s contribution to an understanding of Australia’s cultural history or environment, or

An area is of social significance, because of the area’s association with Aboriginal life after 1788 or the area’s association with a contemporary community for social, spiritual or other reasons.

Escarpment The category escarpment is assigned to land that includes such features as a long cliff-like ridge or rock, and the land includes significant or unusual geological, geomorphological or scenic qualities.

Foreshore The category of foreshore is assigned to land that is situated on the water's edge and forms a transition zone between the aquatic and terrestrial environment.

General Community Use Is a category of land that should be applied where the land may be available for use for any purpose for which community land may be used, whether by the public at large or by specific sections of the public. It includes land that does not fall into the categories of natural area, sportsground, park or area of cultural significance.

Lease Confers an exclusive right to possession on the tenant/lessee. It is usually a written document and often registered on the title.

Licence Does not confer an exclusive right to possession and confers on the licensee the right to use the land, or part of it, for a limited purpose, often for a limited time.

Natural Area As defined by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 is land that, whether or not in an undisturbed state, possesses a significant geological feature, geomorphological feature, landform, representative system or other natural feature or attribute tat would be sufficient to further categorise the land as bushland, wetland, escarpment, watercourse or foreshore.

Objectives Are broad statements that identify the end result or a desired outcome.

Operational Land Is land owned by Council that is not intended for public access and use. Operational land would ordinarily comprise land held as a temporary asset or as an investment, land which facilitates the carrying out by a council of its functions or land which may not be open to the general public, such as a works depot or a council garage.



Other Estate Is defined as: interest, charge, right, title, claim, demand, lien and encumbrance whether at law or in equity. An example is the grant of easements.

Park As defined by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 is land that is or is proposed to be, improved by landscaping, gardens or the provision of non-sporting equipment and facilities, for use mainly for passive or active recreational, social, educational and cultural pursuits that do not unduly intrude on the peaceful enjoyment of the land by others.

Performance Target Is an objective or goal to be performed.

Parks Capital Works Program

Is the capital works budget for the Parks and Recreation Branch.

Playground An outdoor structure/area for children to play on.

Section 94 (s94) This section of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act permits councils to collect monetary contributions from persons developing land to meet the increased demand for public services and amenities generated by their development.

Skate Park/Ramp A constructed facility used for skating.

Sportsground As defined by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 is land used or proposed to be used primarily for active recreation involving organised sports or the playing of outdoor games.

Watercourse The category of Watercourse has been assigned to land that includes:

• Any stream of water, whether perennial or intermittent, flowing in a natural channel, or in a natural channel that has been artificially improved, or in an artificial channel that has changed the course of the stream of water, and any other stream of water into or from which the stream of water flows, and

• Associated riparian land or vegetation, including land that is protected land for the purposes of the Rivers and Foreshores Improvement Act 1948 or State protected land identified in an order under section 7 of the Native Vegetation Conservation Act 1997.

Wetland The category of wetland has been assigned to land that includes marshes, mangroves, backwaters, billabongs, swamps, sedgelands, wet meadows or wet healthlands that form a waterbody that is inundated cyclically, intermittently or permanently with fresh, brackish or salt water, whether slow moving or stationary.



1 Introduction

1.1 Background

This generic Plan of Management is an important document designed to provide clear guidelines for the effective management of Community Land - Sportsgrounds, in the care and control of Council and its delegated authorities. This generic plan of management will support any subsequent individual plans of management. Such plans will be developed where large-scale development, conflicting or complex management issues exist, suggesting a more specific management approach is necessary. Benefits of this plan of management are: • Identifying the key issues and values common to sportsgrounds. • Establishing directions for planning, resource management and maintenance of sportsgrounds. This plan of management will provide a basis for assigning priorities in the programming of works and budgeting for new or upgraded facilities. A review after five years will allow policy and planning issues to be updated. This generic plan of management is consistent with Councils strategic direction and land management objectives. Its preparation is a comprehensive and holistic approach to the management of Council owned public land and land under its Care and Control. The plan will be part of Councils overall open space planning activities reflecting Councils priorities and input from community consultation.

1.2 The Local Government Act

The Local Government Act, 1993 (the Act) provides Councils with a specific approach to the classification and management of community land. It states that there must be a plan of management prepared for all community land and there are restrictions on the use of such land. This plan of management has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993. Please note that this plan applies to community land (land available for public use) and not operational land. The Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 provides guidelines for the categorisation of community land. The categories reflect land use and/or describe the physical characteristics of the land such as sportsgrounds, natural areas and general parkland. In addressing the requirement for plans of management for all community land, Council has adopted a strategy whereby a number of generic plans, according to category, have been prepared. Under the Act, specific plans of management are required for the following pieces of community land: • Land declared to be "critical habitat" under the Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act 1995 or

the Fisheries Management Act 1994. • Land directly affected by a recovery plan or threat abatement plan under the Threatened Species

Conservation Act or the Fisheries Management Act 1994. • Land declared by Council to contain 'significant natural features' because it is a known geological,

geomorphical, scenic or other feature that warrants protection or special management, or is part of a wildlife corridor.

• Land declared by Council to contain an area of ‘cultural significance'. If the above circumstances occur after a generic plan of management has been adopted for an area of community land, the generic plan of management ceases to apply to that area from the date that the declaration took effect, and a specific plan of management must be prepared and adopted for that area in accordance with the Act.



Whilst the Local Government Act applies specifically to Council owned community land the principles developed in this generic plan of management will apply to Crown Land under Council’s trusteeship where specific plans have not been developed for the land. Leases and licenses on Crown Land will be managed under the terms of the Crown Lands Act. This Plan also takes into account the principles of Crown Land management as set out in the Crown Land Act 1989.

1.3 Hawkesbury Sports Council

Hawkesbury City Council made a decision in 1991 to allow the care, control and management of specific active sporting facilities to be undertaken by the sporting community. The Hawkesbury Sports Council was formed by way of public meetings in 1991 under the guidance of Hawkesbury City Council and was incorporated in January 1992 to be representative of the sporting community, specifically to undertake management of active sporting facilities in the region. Hawkesbury City Council and Hawkesbury Sports Council work closely together regarding all sport coming under the Sports Council’s umbrella. The Hawkesbury Sports Council has been involved in the preparation and implementation of Corporate Management Plans since its inception. There exists a continued requirement for the Sports Council to formulate plans and strategies pertaining to the regions forecast growth, development and day-to-day operational expenses for incorporation into the budget of Hawkesbury City Council. These management plans must be in keeping with this Sportsground Plan of Management.

1.4 Community Consultation

Community consultation is integral to the appropriate provision of facilities across the city. It provides Council with an understanding of local issues and the community values attached to the sportsgrounds and associated facilities. Community involvement and consultation also encourages an appreciation of Council's land management aims, counters possible misunderstanding, and fosters Community stewardship of local parks and sportsgrounds. In order to generate widespread community awareness of this draft Plan of Management, advertisements were placed in the Hawkesbury Gazette and Hawkesbury Courier; letters were sent to known user groups, including Hawkesbury Sports Council, and copies of the draft were posted on Council's website, with hard copies available at Council Offices and the public libraries located at Windsor and Richmond. During the exhibition period of the draft document, comment was invited on the values and issues addressed in the Plan, with suggestions for alternative strategies also requested. Council has considered all submissions relevant to the plan of management prior to finalisation and subsequent adoption of the plan. Comments regarding this or any other adopted Plan of Management may be submitted at any time for consideration in future plans of management.



1.5 Scope of the Plan

This plan of management applies to all community land that has been categorised as a sportsground as defined in the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. It applies to the actual playing fields used for organised sport as well as to the structures and facilities directly associated with them. The principles are also applicable to sportsgrounds on Crown Lands under Council's care and control. Other documents may imply management strategies and actions over community land that is not identified in this plan. Specific reference should be made, but not be limited, to the following: Hawkesbury City Council Documents: • Access Policy • Community Strategic Plan 2010-2030 • Conservation Management Plan - McQuade Park • General Community Use Generic Plan of Management • Hawkesbury Local Environmental Plan 1989 • Hawkesbury Mobility Plan 2010 • Natural Areas Generic Plan of Management • Operational Plan • Parks Generic Plan of Management • Pesticide Use Notification Plan 2010 • Statement of Equity Principles Hawkesbury Sports Council Documents: • Management Plan - Hawkesbury Sports Council Legislation: • Companion Animals Act 1998 • Crown Lands Act 1989 • Dividing Fences Act 1991 • Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 • Fisheries Management Act 1994 • Native Title Act (Commonwealth) 1993 • National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974 • Noxious Weeds Act 1993 • Pesticides Act 1999 • Pesticides Regulation 2009 • Rivers and Foreshores Improvement Act 1948 • Rural Fires Act 1997 • SREP No. 20 Hawkesbury-Nepean River (No.2 – 1997) • Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 • Other legislation where relevant This Plan has been developed to give clear management directions for community land by means of identifying the objectives and performance targets for sportsgrounds, means of achieving these targets and how they will be assessed.



2 Basis for Management The plan of management has been written to outline the ways that the land will be used and the objectives for management. It may be used to determine the allocation of priorities for use of resources and funds. This plan of management applies to all community land that has been categorised Sportsground within the Hawkesbury Local Government Area. The total area of land to which this plan applies is 105.106 hectares. Sportsgrounds contribute to approximately 5.3% of Council's open space.

2.1 Community Values

Sportsgrounds are an integral component of the open space network within Hawkesbury City Council, catering for an identified recreation need. The sportsgrounds of the Hawkesbury have major significance to not only the local community but to the whole Western Sydney Region as has been proven by the increasing number of applications from Schools, Sporting and Community Groups from adjoining Local Government areas. The 1995 Hawkesbury City Council Residents Recreation Survey identified that approximately 30% of respondents participate in sports that specifically utilise sportsgrounds or associated facilities. No differentiation was made regarding council owned/managed sports venues and those run by other institutions or private corporations. Such sports include: football sports such as Rugby League, Soccer, Australian Rules Football and Rugby Union (30%); Bat sports such as Cricket, Baseball, Hockey (24%) and Netball, Basketball and Volleyball (25%). The top six features that respondents identified as being important to them are: play equipment, cleanliness and the provision of garbage bins; shade; trees; amenities such as toilets; and, park furniture. A recreation strategy will be undertaken in the near future to further inform priorities.

2.2 Corporate Goals

To ensure that this plan of management is consistent with Council’s corporate direction it is important to note the following management statements: Hawkesbury City Council Charter:

"To provide directly or on behalf of other levels of government, after due consultation, adequate, equitable and appropriate services and facilities for the community and to ensure that those services and facilities are managed efficiently and effectively". "To properly manage, develop, protect, restore, enhance and conserve the environment of the area for which it is responsible, in a manner that is consistent with and promotes the principles of ecologically sustainable development". "To bear in mind that it is the custodian and trustee of public assets and to effectively account for and manage the assets for which it is responsible". “To exercise its functions in a manner that is consistent with and promotes social justice principles of equity, access, participation and rights”.

“To facilitate the involvement of councillors, members of the public, users of facilities and services and council staff in the development, improvement and co-ordination of local government”. "To keep the local community and the State Government (and through it the wider community) informed about its activities".



Hawkesbury City Council's Corporate Vision: “In 2030 we want Hawkesbury to be a place where we have:”

“A community in which the area’s character is reserved and lifestyle choices are provided with sustainable planned, well serviced development, safe and friendly neighbourhoods” “A community dedicated to minimising its ecological footprint, enjoying a clean river and an environment that is nurtured, healthy, protected and provides opportunities for its sustainable use”

Sports Council's Mission Statement:

“To provide, maintain, improve and increase the network of active recreational areas to meet the needs and expectations of the community".

The Business Goal of the Hawkesbury Sports Council Inc. “To establish and implement maintenance, replacement and development programs which will ensure an acceptable level of service for the sporting community in terms of facilities, safety, required standards and legal requirements”.

2.3 Core Objectives

The core objectives of the 1993 Local Government Act in relation to land categorised as sportsgrounds are as follows: • To encourage, promote and facilitate recreational pursuits in the community involving organised and

informal sporting activities and games; and • To ensure that the activities are managed having regard to any adverse impact on nearby

residences. These corporate goals and core objectives define the strategic framework under which performance objectives have been developed. As issues arise in the management of community land these are tested against the performance objectives and used to develop a series of planned activities or strategies. To ensure the actions needed to complete the identified strategy are undertaken in a planned manner, responsibilities, performance targets and performance indicators have been identified and outlined in the accompanying action plan.

2.4 Management Objectives

Based on legislative goals, corporate goals, community needs and expectations, and the values and assets of the sportsgrounds themselves, the following broad primary, management objectives have been identified: • To ensure user group projected plans are carried out in accordance with priority and budget

constraints. • To ensure management of sportsgrounds takes into consideration the principles of Crown Land

management. • To provide for public safety. • To efficiently and effectively manage public assets. • To provide the wider community with sufficient appropriate access to sportsgrounds. • To encourage community involvement in the management of sportsgrounds. • To provide a broad spectrum of safe, high quality recreational opportunities having regard to the

objectives outlined above. • To ensure the provision of suitable land for future sporting facilities.



These objectives have been used to guide policy development and formulation of the action plan.



3 Planning and Management Issues Following is a list of major planning and management issues relevant to the management of Sportsgrounds in the Hawkesbury.

3.1 Safety and Risk Management

Safety is an issue Council needs to address on a permanent basis. Council has a statutory responsibility to provide facilities/structures that meet relevant Australian Standards and is obliged under common law to take appropriate steps to protect people from reasonably foreseeable risk or harm in the use of public spaces and public assets. This implies a responsibility to maintain all sportsgrounds and associated facilities to an acceptable standard. • The development of any structure as well as the undertaking of general maintenance within parks

must consider the safety of park users as well as the staff undertaking the works. • Due to the number of sportsgrounds distributed over a wide area, staff are unable to undertake

frequent inspections. • Anti-social behaviour and its effects are ongoing issues. • Dogs, off leash, can threaten the health and safety of park users. • Provision needs to be made to close sportsgrounds for maintenance purposes. • Provision needs to be made to close sportsgrounds affected or potentially affected by natural

disasters such as flood until the safety of the public can be assured. • Provision needs to be made to allow the closure of grounds during wet weather for the safety of

participants, spectators and to protect the ground surface. • Broken glass on sportsgrounds is a safety issue.

3.2 Access and Parking

As sportsgrounds are used by the broad cross section of the community, facilities must be accessible by public and private transport where possible so that people, especially children and teenagers can access them. • Most sportsgrounds do not have structured pathways, or public toilets, which can limit use by parts

of the community. • Design of facilities in the past has not taken in to account the needs of physically disabled users and

parents with prams. • Provision of emergency access to or egress from sportsgrounds , including flood and fire evacuation

plans for users, need to be determined. • There is limited access for pedestrians and cyclists to sportsgrounds. • Many sportsgrounds are not within walking distance or close to public transport. Often parking

arrangements within and adjacent to a lot of parks are unsatisfactory for users or disturb surrounding residential areas.

• Some sportsgrounds are unfenced and unauthorised vehicular access is difficult and expensive to curb.

• Gates on some entries to sportsgrounds can limit access for emergency and service vehicles. • Closure of sportsgrounds is necessary for maintenance or due to wet weather in order to protect the

conditions of the grounds. • .Due to the rural nature of many sportsgrounds amenities are locked to prevent the risk of vandalism

and to ensure they are not used for anti-social activities.

3.3 Recreation and Land Use

The majority of sportsgrounds within the City provide playing fields that cater for the local sports needs of the community. They are available for a variety of activities, while balancing the need for specialised sporting activities at district, regional & state level.



• The drinking of alcohol at sportsgrounds can lead to anti-social behaviour as well as broken glass

causing a safety issue. • A lack of signage identifying what can or cannot occur in each sportsground makes it difficult to curb

certain activities. The over usage of signs can however lead to clutter and visual pollution. • Community needs are not static. • Some Sporting Complexes are not available for general public use. They are designated sporting

complexes and as such are fenced to prevent unauthorised use. • There is strong demand for usage of sportsgrounds by not only formalised sporting clubs but also

schools, visitors, religious, social and community groups.

3.4 Environmental Management

Development and maintenance of sportsgrounds needs to be carried out in an ecologically sustainable manner to prevent any long-term impacts on adjoining properties and user groups. • Many sportsgrounds lack substantial planting of trees and other vegetation. This and the removal of

habitat trees can affect the fauna that use sportsgrounds. • Existing remnants of native vegetation adjacent to/ within sportsgrounds are often threatened by

current management practices such as nutrient enrichment or expansion of sportsgrounds. • Development may not be compatible with surrounding natural areas or it could provide long-term

negative impacts on adjoining bushland. • Community needs are not static. Changing community needs must be met in an ecologically

sustainable manner.

3.5 Landscape Character and Design

Landscape design is important when designing new sporting facilities to meet multiple-use criteria and promote both cost-effective and efficient usage through sharing of facilities, amenities and car parking. Landscape design of sportsgrounds need to be sympathetic to the existing setting, its landscape values or the unique character and features of each site. The inherent landscape features thus need to be retained, and where possible enhanced, when developing sportsgrounds. • Due to limited finance landscape designs for sportsgrounds are rarely undertaken. In some

instances this had led to poor planting design and colour schemes or lack of facilities. • Many sportsgrounds lack areas of shade for the use of the community. • The entrances to and landscaping of sportsgrounds are often poor. • Flooding is a constraint to the location and type of structures placed at some sportsgrounds. • In some instances runoff from sportsgrounds can carry high nutrients to adjacent parklands or

natural areas. • Many sportsgrounds lack essential facilities and structures such as shelters. • Consideration of Safer by Design principles should be incorporated into new designs for

sportsgrounds to improve safety of park users and staff and reduce the incidence of crime.

3.6 Maintenance of Facilities and Grounds

Due to the high usage of sportsgrounds, maintaining the grounds in good condition can be difficult. • Vandalism and inappropriate behaviour is a problem at sportsgrounds. • Litter and dumping of household and building rubbish remains a major & costly problem at many

sportsgrounds. • Efficient maintenance practices are required to provide quality sportsgrounds within available

budgets. • Over use of parks causes wear and tear issues.



• Maintenance budgets need to reflect the need to provide quality playing surfaces and facilities of an acceptable standard.

• Large events within parks on a regular basis can lead to wear and tear. This is more noticeable following wet weather.

• Buildings, fences and other structures are an integral part of many sportsgrounds. Some of these are outdated and not appropriate to the needs of user, nor acceptable to the general community.

• It is necessary to monitor usage patterns to ensure the ground carrying capacity of the fields does not result in cost over-run due to intense maintenance requirements.

• Maintenance time has been reduced due to increasing sporting seasons imposed by State & National Sporting Associations.

• Limited funding for upkeep of grounds. • Old infrastructure eg irrigation systems & electricity supply require updating.

3.7 Community Involvement/Neighbour Relations

Good neighbourly relations are important in the management of sportsgrounds. Neighbours and community users are vital for the contribution to the planning and management process as well as informing Council of any ongoing issues. • In some cases, issues such as anti-social behaviour and noise affect the community and

neighbours. • Neighbours are sometimes hesitant to report inappropriate behaviour to police in fears of retaliation. • Lighting from parks may impact upon neighbouring properties.



4 Management Strategy

4.1 Leases, Licences and Other Estates

Leases and licences formalise the use of community land by groups such as sporting clubs, community groups and schools, or by commercial organisations and individuals providing facilities or services for public use. The Local Government Act contains important restrictions on the ability of Council to grant leases, licences and other estates over community land as these alienate the land and limit the ability of the public to use that land. A summary of these restrictions is included in Appendix 3. Generally a lease will be required where exclusive occupation or use of all, or part, of an area is proposed. A licence may be required for activities that may affect other users. This Plan of Management authorises the following uses, to be leased or licensed as appropriate. The purpose of such leases, licences and other estates must be consistent with the core objectives for sportsgrounds.

Club Houses / Buildings This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence of buildings associated with sportsgrounds as Club Houses. These buildings can be used for club activities such as meetings and social functions relating to their current lease. This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence over a community building for the purpose of trading such as a kiosk.

Easements This plan of management authorises the lease, licence or grant of any other estate over General Community Use areas for the purpose of providing easements for public utilities, providing pipes, conduits or other connections under the surface of the ground for the connection of premises adjoining the community land to a facility on the community land provided that: • there is no feasible alternative to connecting to a facility on the community land; • there is no significant impact on the sportsground; and • in all cases, the applicant is to be responsible for all costs incurred by Council in the creation of the

easement.

Festivals / Events / Ceremonies This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the purpose of festivals, events and ceremonies to be held at sportsgrounds. Such leases or licences will provide for the temporary erection of food stalls, stages, seating and amusement rides.

Filming This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the purpose of commercial photographic sessions and filming.



Helicopters This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the purpose of helicopter landing and take off, provided all other approvals such as use of restricted air space have been granted by the relevant authority. Such a lease or licence may require the temporary erection of exclusion fencing or any other measure required to ensure public safety. Hot Air Balloons This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the purpose of Hot Air balloon landing and take off, provided all other approvals such as use of restricted air space have been granted by the relevant authority. Such a lease or licence may require the temporary erection of exclusion fencing or any other measure required to ensure public safety.

Markets This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the purpose of markets and other such activities, at sportsgrounds.

Parking This plan authorises the granting of a licence for the purpose of collecting monies for parking at sportsgrounds provided that all monies collected be used for the maintenance and / or upgrading of the sportsground at which it is collected. This authorisation applies only to sportsgrounds where the individual plan of management specifies it to be so. Personal Training This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the purpose of commercial personal training activities.

Playing of Musical Instruments This plan of management authorises the granting of a licence for the playing of a musical instrument, or singing, for fee or reward.

Roads / Access This Plan of Management authorises the granting of a lease, license or other estate for the purpose of the provision of public roads, where the provision of that road is consistent with the core objectives stated herein and where the road is necessary for the enjoyment of that land. This plan of management authorises the granting of a licence for the use of an existing road of fire trail to: • transport building materials and equipment required in relation to building work that is to be, or is

being carried out on land adjoining the community land; or • to remove waste that is consequential on such work.



Where there is no existing road, access may be permitted (and licensed accordingly) to adjoining land for the above purpose provided no damage to the park is expected. A bond will be required in this instance. Where a sportsground is to be used to transport building materials or waste to or from adjoining private land, the licence will be valid for no more than 1 month.

Storage Facilities This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the storage of equipment in sheds or containers, provided the equipment is regularly used by community groups / non-profit organisations at that sportsground.

Stormwater This plan of management authorises the construction of relevant structures for the purposes of stormwater treatment and or retention as prescribed in s28 of the Regulations. This plan authorises the continued use of drains, channels and easements and creation of new drains, channels and easements.

Telecommunications Towers This plan of management authorises the granting of a lease or licence for the erection and use of telecommunications towers provided the proposal is put on public exhibition prior to a council resolution permitting the use. A rental fee will be payable to Council and that fee is to be used for the improvement of the sportsground in which the facility is located.

Granting of leases, licences or other estates Conditions of approval must be in keeping with the existing relevant Council policies and may require a resolution from Council.

4.2 Other Permitted Activities

In addition to the uses requiring a lease or licence, this Plan of Management authorises the following uses, to be leased or licensed as appropriate.

Irrigation This plan of management authorises the installation of irrigation pipes under ground, to irrigate parks. This includes the use of recycled water.

Signage This plan of management authorises the erection of regulatory, interpretive and directional signage within sportsgrounds. Sponsorship signage is permitted at specific sportsgrounds. This is to be nominated within individual plans of management.



Sport This plan of management authorises the playing of formal or informal sports, including but not limited to:*:

• Australian Rules Football • Baseball • BMX • Cricket • Dog Training • Little Athletics • Netball • Personal Training • Rugby League • Rugby Union • School sports • Soccer • Softball • Tennis • Triathlons

* Note: Not all sports are authorised to be played / conducted at all sportsgrounds. Please refer to signage at individual fields and/or section 4.5 Schedule of leases and licences for activities permitted at specific sportsgrounds.

Stormwater This plan of management authorises the construction of relevant structures for the purposes of stormwater treatment and or retention as prescribed in s28 of the Regulations. This plan authorises the continued use of drains, channels and easements and creation of new drains, channels and easements.

Structures This plan of management authorises the building or use of the following structures*: • Walkways • Pathways • Refreshment kiosks / canteens • Work Sheds or Storage Containers required in connection with the maintenance of the land • Toilets or rest rooms • Amenities including change rooms, mother’s rooms, first aid rooms, referee’s rooms. • BMX tracks • Tennis courts • Netball courts • Lighting of facilities, including floodlighting • Shelters and seating • Cricket nets • Softball nets • Discuss nets • Goal posts • Removal, relocation and or construction of buildings for community use. • BBQ facilities • Fencing • Grandstands • Playgrounds • Retaining walls • Irrigation



• Bores • Water storage tanks *Please note that development approvals will be required for the building or installation of some of these structures, in particular major structures / development such as grand stands, lighting, courts and buildings. This approval process will provide for the appropriate community consultation in relation to such development. See Appendix 3 for more information regarding development that does not require development consent.

4.3 Conditions of Use

Conditions of approval must be in keeping with the existing relevant Council policies and may require a resolution from Council. Any approval for leases or licences must include, but not be limited to, the following provisions: • No significant damage to the area is anticipated as a result of the proposed activity. • A bond or agreement to undertake repairs, in respect of potential damage is held by Council or

Hawkesbury Sports Council. • The activity is permissible under the objective identified for Sportsgrounds. • The use or occupation does not involve the erection of any building or structure of a permanent

nature. • There is anticipated to be no significant disturbance to adjacent property owners. • There is no interference with other users. • Proof is obtained by Council of suitable insurances. • Payment of the relevant fee is made or a payment plan is established • All litter is removed. Please note that the Users Guide issued by Sports Council as part of a lease or licence agreement may contain additional conditions. 4.4 Restricted Activities Activities that are prohibited or restricted within sportsgrounds include, but are not limited to : • Camping • Dogs off leash • Drinking alcohol • Firearms • Horse riding • Lighting of fires • Motorbikes • Playing golf • Remote control vehicles including boats, aeroplanes and cars • Remote control vehicles including boats, aeroplanes and cars • Unauthorised vehicles • Fireworks



4.5 Schedule of Leases and Licenses for Specific Sports The following leases and licences exist over sportsgrounds:

Playing fields and sporting facilities :

Park No. Facility Name / Location Activity Purpose Permissible Term

Advertise (Yes / No)

All grounds School Sport Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Bensons Lane Complex Cricket, Soccer, Softball, Baseball,

Australian Rules Football, Personal Training

Sporting Complex 6 Months No

Berger Reserve Soccer Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Bounty Reserve Cricket, Soccer Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Breakaways Ovals Cricket Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Brinsley Park Cricket, Soccer Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Colbee Park Baseball, Cricket, Soccer, BMX Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Colonial Reserve Baseball, Rugby League Cricket Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Deerubbun Park Rugby Union, Dog Training Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Don’t Worry Oval Cricket, Rugby Union, Personal Training Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Glossodia Park Cricket Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Icely Park Soccer Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No McQuade Oval Cricket, Rugby Union, Personal Training Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No McMahon Park Cricket, Soccer, Little Athletics Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Mileham Complex Netball Public recreation (Playing of sport) 12 Months

Oakville Oval Cricket, Soccer Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Peel Park Cricket, Rugby League Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months



Playing fields and sporting facilities :

Park No. Facility Name / Location Activity Purpose Permissible Term

Advertise (Yes / No)

Pound Paddock Cricket Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Powell Park Tennis Courts Tennis Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Richmond Oval Cricket, Personal Training Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Tamplin-Field Little Athletics, Dog Training Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Turnbull Oval Cricket, Rugby League, Soccer, Tennis,

Netball Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No

Vineyard Park Cricket Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Woodlands Park Cricket, Soccer, Personal Training Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No Woodbury Estate Cricket, Soccer Public recreation (playing of sport) 6 Months No

Note: Hawkesbury Indoor Sports Stadium is situated on operational land and is not included under this plan of management.



5 Action Plan

The action plan is the working component of the plan of management. This section links management strategies to proposed actions for all sportsgrounds. It outlines the means of achieving the objectives and how that performance is to be measured. Within this table, actions are prioritised, however implementation is subject to the availability of resources. Action Plan for Sportsgrounds Management / Planning Issue

Objective Performance Target / Strategies / What is to be achieved

Action / Means of Achievement Program

Responsibility Budget Area Priority Performance Measure

Recreation fields, equipment, including playing facilities, tables, and the like shall be installed and maintained in accordance with acceptable standards

Conduct regular inspections of infrastructure and formed walking trails.

Hawkesbury Sports Council & Hawkesbury City Council.

Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Regular inspections of key infrastructure

Encourage community involvement in the recognition and remediation of public risk

Respond promptly to reports of hazards within reserves

Hawkesbury Sports Council.

Existing Resources

High / as needed

Prompt response and remediation of hazards

Discourage anti-social behaviour

Redesign areas that encourage anti-social behaviour

Hawkesbury Sports Council & Hawkesbury City Council

Existing Resources

Medium Number of areas designed.

Investigate and install appropriate lighting for car parks where relevant

Hawkesbury Sports Council / Hawkesbury City Council

Capital Works Program

High Reduced vandalism

Safety and Risk Management

To ensure the safety of public when visiting sports grounds

Protect users and staff from harm

Use Safer by Design principles when developing or upgrading Sportsgrounds

Sports Council Parks Project Officer

Existing Resources

Ongoing New designs consider Safer by Design principles



Management / Planning Issue




Ensure that health and safety of the community is not threatened by contact with dogs

Install signage instructing that dogs are not permitted on sportsgrounds.

Hawkesbury Sports Council & City Council

Existing Resources

Medium Number of signs erected. Number of enforcements.

Develop a list of sportsgrounds that could be impacted by flooding. Erect signposts for Park Closed signs. Advertise ground closures on Council website and through known user groups

Hawkesbury Sports Council Hawkesbury City Council

Existing Resources

High Development of list of reserves to monitor after floods

Ensure the public is not at threat from flood

Close sportsgrounds that are threatened by flood until the park is assessed as being safe.


Existing Resources

When required

Number of sportsgrounds closed immediately after floods subside.

Advertise ground closures on Council website and through known user groups

Hawkesbury Sports Council Hawkesbury City Council

Existing Resources

When required

Number of ground closure notifications issued

Reduce possible injuries due to wet/soggy grounds

Close sportsgrounds that are wet and soggy until the grounds are assessed as being safe


Existing resources

When required

Number of sportsgrounds closed immediately after wet weather

Limit hazards derived from anti social behaviour

Prohibit the drinking of alcohol at sportsgrounds where appropriate


Existing Resources

High Number of signs installed

General maintenance and management

Ensure infrastructure / facilities are appropriate to the needs of users

Repair or replace outdated facilities to an acceptable standard

Conduct a review of all facilities within sportsgrounds and source funding for replacement where necessary Initiate user pays system..


Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Review of infrastructure is undertaken







Conduct a review of all facilities within sportsground and source funding for new facilities where necessary


Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Review of infrastructure is undertaken

Install facilities / grounds / amenities where required

Review suitable passive recreation areas to develop into active recreation


Consultancy Budget

High Recreation Strategy considers converting recreation areas from passive to active

Repair vandalism promptly to discourage further vandalism

Repair any sites that have been vandalised within 48 hours if damage is minor.


Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Number of sites requiring treatment over time.

Reduce visual barriers that hide vandalism activities

Install lighting where appropriate -carparks or at toilet blocks

Hawkesbury City Council / Hawkesbury Sports Council

Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Number of sites being vandalised.

Erect fencing and gates at reserves that are frequently vandalised. Lock these gates either all the time or in the evenings, depending upon individual situations


Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Number of sites being vandalised

Reduce the occurrence of vandalism

Lock Facilities and reduce access to parks where required

Lock amenity buildings if necessary


Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Number of amenity buildings being vandalised.

Reduce the amount of litter number of

Track down offenders Report dumping incidents to RID squad to chase up offenders


Existing Resource

High Ongoing

Number of dumping incidents occurring







Clean up dumped rubbish immediately where appropriate

Clean up dumped rubbish within 72 hours of report.


Existing Resources

High Ongoing

Number of cleanup operations required over time.

Install signage and or fencing to discourage dumping

Install signage at known dumping sites and where appropriate fence the reserve to limit access.


Existing Resources

Ongoing Number of signs installed over time.

dumping incidents

Improve aesthetics of an area by reducing litter

Provide rubbish bins where necessary. Introduce recycle bins


Existing Resources

Ongoing Number of bins installed.

sportsgrounds for large events Hawkesbury Sports Council

Existing Resources

High Sports Council’s Management Plan accepted by HCC

Reduce maintenance costs of sportsgrounds

Reduce the destruction of sportsgrounds through overuse

Close sportsgrounds when grounds are affected by rain.

Hawkesbury Sports Council

Existing Resources

High Sports Council’s User Policy developed

Reduce costs of maintaining under utilised and or unsuitable grounds for active sport

Change some grounds back to passive recreation only

Review the viability of some currently active sporting facilities that may be affected by adjoining development, safety issues, isolation, legal liability and lack of infrastructure.


Existing Resources

Medium Review Completed.

Prevent unauthorised access to sportsgrounds

Close non-essential pedestrian and vehicular access.

Hawkesbury Sports Council / Hawkesbury Sports Council

Existing Resources

High Number of tracks closed successfully

Access and parking

Ensure that essential pedestrian and vehicular access through or into sportsgrounds minimises the impact on the

Erect locked gates over emergency or service vehicle entries

Identify all emergency vehicles of service vehicle access requirements and place locked gates over these roads.


Existing Resources

High Number of access points with gates across.







Maintain existing roads and walking tracks to ensure safety and prevent erosion

Inspect roads and tracks regularly and maintain when necessary


Existing Resources

High Number of Inspections

Provide adequate parking facilities where appropriate


Existing Resources

Medium Areas damaged by unauthorised parking

Limit unauthorised parking

Lock carparks in the evening where appropriate.


Existing Resources

High Number of carparks locked in evenings

Review grounds closure criteria

Close grounds according to criteria developed


Existing Resources

High Ground Closed Criteria developed

Undertake regular review of ground usage patterns

Limit usage of grounds where appropriate


Existing Resources

Medium Review undertaken

area

Undertake review of parking provisions at sportsgrounds

Provide appropriate parking as funding permits



Medium Review undertaken

Identify suitable locations for development of suitable access for people with disabilities or with prams

Discuss with Council's Disability Advisory Committee

Hawkesbury City Council & Hawkesbury Sports Council


Medium Number of access points constructed versus number recommended in Plan

Ensure that access to sportsgrounds is provided to people with disabilities and with prams. Ensure amenities

associated with sportsgrounds take into account the needs of the physically disabled

Replace or alter existing toilet facilities to accommodate for disabled access


As funds permit

Medium Number of toilet blocks still existing without appropriate access.







Obtain maximum use of facilities depending on ground capability.

Provide access to sporting grounds and facilities to schools and community groups on a casual bases

Through application to Hawkesbury Sports Council with approval subject to ground availability, weather conditions, contractual obligations and appropriate insurance cover.


Existing Resources

High User satisfaction with services provided

Formulate plans and strategies pertaining to the regions' forecast growth, development and changing sporting requirements


Existing Resources

High Plans and Strategies produced

To involve the community in the management of sportsgrounds

Identify and keep abreast of recreational sporting trends throughout the City to ensure responsive allocation of facilities Conduct community survey of

recreational needs Hawkesbury City Council

Existing Resources

High Survey conducted

Encourage neighbours to notify Council of any concerns regarding vandalism, dumping etc

Respond efficiently to any reports from neighbours


Existing Resources

Medium Reduction in vandalism & dumping

Ensure responsibilities of all sporting hirers are identified accurately and managed to ensure that adverse effects upon neighbours are minimised

Develop hire agreements. Include a bond that can be kept if agreement breached.


Existing Resources

High Number of disturbances caused to neighbours

Design lighting and limit use to reduce impact upon neighbours

Hawkesbury Sports Council& Hawkesbury City Council

Existing Resources

Medium Number of complaints received

Community involvement / neighbour relations

To reduce the impact of use of the reserve onto adjoining residents

Limit the effects of lighting upon neighbours

Identify and rectify all substandard floodlighting



High All lights upgraded







Install cloudmaster system to control all lighting


Existing Resources

Medium Cloudmaster systems on all grounds

Ensure that the landscape character of sportsgrounds is retained

Any structures, signs, paths etc in sportsgrounds should be sympathetic to the existing setting, its landscape values or unique character.

Plan appropriately, including materials selection and colour schemes


Existing Resources

Medium Number of plans for new structures

Consider constraints such as flooding when siting facilities.

New structures eg toilet blocks, shelters etc to be located in appropriate areas and designed appropriately

Assess impact of flood on structures when deciding on suitable location and design.


Existing Resources

Medium Number of structures assessed.

Consider adjacent land use when designing sportsgrounds

Consider habitat, aesthetic and shade values of trees at sportsgrounds.

Retain trees for habitat value as well as shade and aesthetic values at sportsgrounds where possible


Existing Resources

High Customer satisfaction

Design Sportsgrounds to improve safety of users and reduce crime

Reduce potential for crime within Sportsgrounds

Use Safer by Design principles when developing new areas

Sports Council Parks Project Officer Building Services Manager

Existing Resources

Ongoing New designs consider Safer by Design principles / Crime reduced

Landscape character and design

Consider designing sportsground to encourage social interaction

Investigate the provision of spectator facilities to encourage social interaction

Provide appropriate facilities Hawkesbury Sports Council / Hawkesbury City Council

As funds permit

Medium Provision of facilities.

Land use and Planning Framework

Ensure development of sportsgrounds does not impact

To ensure that a buffer between the development and neighbouring properties

New sportsgrounds are to be designed with buffers


Existing Resources

High Buffers included in all developments







upon neighbouring areas

is appropriate All efforts should be made to provide linkages for wildlife corridors.


Existing Resources

High Linkages provided

Ensure signage /advertising within sportsgrounds does not affect visual quality of grounds

Limit sponsorship signage

Develop a policy for sponsorship signage at sportsgrounds


Existing Resources

High Sign policy implemented & reduction in visual pollution.

All new capital works programs will include a maintenance component

Include ongoing maintenance provisions in Section 94 and Capital Works funding allocations.


Budget Allocation

High Reduction in maintenance cost of new facilities

Consider maintenance costs in the planning and design of capital works for sportsgrounds

High standard facilities with reduced maintenance costs

Review existing policy of accepting cheapest quote to ensure high standard of workmanship, fixtures & fittings are included in tender documents.


Budget Allocation

High Reduction in maintenance cost of new facilities.

Create habitat corridors through revegetation where possible


Parks Capital Works Program / Grant

Medium Number of corridors established.

Ensure habitat values are not compromised,

Improve habitat values where appropriate

Retain habitat trees Hawkesbury City Council

Existing Resources

High Number of trees retained.

Limit the use of poisons that may harm user groups or the environment

Assess use of chemicals and fertilisers and their potential effect on the environment and user groups

Hawkesbury Sports Council and City Council

Existing Resources

High Chemical usage assessed.

Environmental Management

Reduce impact of high chemical or fertiliser use on users or adjacent areas

Use chemicals and fertilisers appropriately to limit effect on adjacent areas or people

Review current practices Hawkesbury Sports Council & City Council l

Existing Resources

High Current practices reviewed







Minimise stormwater impacts on sportsgrounds

Conduct a review of stormwater impacts on sportsgrounds

Council’s Manager, Construction and Maintenance / Hawkesbury Sports Council

Existing Resources

High Study Completed

Encourage use of sportsgrounds for passive recreation such as walking and jogging.

Conduct a review of grounds, or areas within sporting grounds, available to passive recreation when grounds are not being used for organised sport


Existing Budget

Medium Review completed

Develop more sporting complexes to cater for changing needs & to reduce infrastructure & maintenance costs

Prepare detailed review of need for complexing specifically due to increasing overlapping of sporting seasons


Sect 94 & Capital Works Budget

High Provision of new complex’s meeting community needs

Ensure sports grounds can cater for multi purpose sporting activities as appropriate

Encourage the multiple use of existing recreation and sports facilities wherever practicable through the shared allocation of single fields


Existing Resources

High Review completed

To cater for the local sporting needs of the Community while balancing the needs of clubs competing at district, regional and state levels.

Ensure the needs of the local community are met

Allocation priorities are to be given to local sporting groups where appropriate.


Existing Resources

High Customer satisfaction

Recreation

Encourage greater use of facilities

Promote Council's sporting facilities.

Develop brochures promoting Councils facilities, particularly tennis courts, cycle tracks and major sporting venues


Existing Resources

Medium Brochures developed.



5 Appendices The appendices for this document are under separate cover. Please refer to the document titled “Community Land Generic Plans of Management - Appendices”. Appendix 1 – Schedule of Lands Appendix 2 – Community Land Category Maps Appendix 3 – Leases, Licences and other Estates Appendix 4 – Documents relating to the management of specific Parks and Reserves